PART 8. TRAFFIC CONTROLS FOR HIGHWAY-RAIL GRADE CROSSINGS TABLE OF CONTENTS

Transcription

1 2005 Edition Page TC8-1 PART 8. TRAFFIC CONTROLS FOR HIGHWAY-RAIL GRADE CROSSINGS TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 8A. Section 8A.01 Section 8A.02 Section 8A.03 Section 8A.04 Section 8A.05 CHAPTER 8B. GENERAL Page Introduction...8A-1 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices...8A-3 Uniform Provisions...8A-4 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Elimination...8A-4 Temporary Traffic Control Zones...8A-4 SIGNS AND MARKING Section 8B.01 Purpose... 8B-1 Section 8B.02 Sizes of Grade Crossing Signs... 8B-1 Section 8B.03 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Sign (R15-2)... 8B-1 Section 8B.04 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series)... 8B-2 Section 8B.05 EXEMPT Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs (R15-3, W10-1a)... 8B-6 Section 8B.06 Turn Restrictions During Preemption... 8B-6 Section 8B.07 DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS Sign (R8-8)... 8B-6 Section 8B.08 STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings... 8B-7 Section 8B.09 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign (R8-9)... 8B-8 Section 8B.10 STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING Sign (R8-10)... 8B-8 Section 8B.11 STOP HERE ON RED Sign (R10-6)... 8B-8 Section 8B.12 Emergency Notification Sign (I-13 or I-13a)... 8B-9 Section 8B.13 TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH Sign (W10-8)... 8B-9 Section 8B.14 NO TRAIN HORN Sign (W10-9)... 8B-10 Section 8B.15 NO SIGNAL Sign (W10-10) or NO GATES OR LIGHTS Sign (W10-13)... 8B-10 Section 8B.16 LOOK Sign (R15-8)... 8B-10 Section 8B.17 Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Sign (W10-5)... 8B-10 Section 8B.18 Storage Space Signs (W10-11, W10-11a, W10-11b)... 8B-12 Section 8B.19 Skewed Crossing Sign (W10-12)... 8B-12 Section 8B.20 Pavement Markings... 8B-12 Section 8B.21 Stop Lines... 8B-13 Section 8B.22 Dynamic Envelope Markings... 8B-13 CHAPTER 8C. ILLUMINATION Section 8C.01 Illumination at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings... 8C-1 CHAPTER 8D. Section 8D.01 Section 8D.02 Section 8D.03 Section 8D.04 Section 8D.05 Section 8D.06 Section 8D.07 FLASHING-LIGHT SIGNALS, GATES, AND TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS Introduction...8D-1 Flashing-Light Signals, Post-Mounted...8D-2 Flashing-Light Signals, Overhead Structures...8D-3 Automatic Gates...8D-3 Four-Quadrant Gate Systems...8D-5 Train Detection...8D-7 Traffic Control Signals at or Near Highway-Rail Grade Crossings...8D-8

2 Page TC Edition FIGURES CHAPTER 8A. Figure 8A-1 CHAPTER 8B. GENERAL Train Dynamic Envelope...8A-2 SIGNS AND MARKINGS Figure 8B-1 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Regulatory Signs... 8B-5 Figure 8B-2 Advance Warning Signs... 8B-5 Figure 8B-3 Regulatory Signs... 8B-7 Figure 8B-4 Examples of Emergency Notification Signs... 8B-9 Figure 8B-5 Warning Signs... 8B-11 Figure 8B-6 Example of Placement of Warning Signs and Pavement Markings at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings... 8B-14 Figure 8B-7 Examples of Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Pavement Markings... 8B-15 Figure 8B-8 Typical Train Dynamic Envelope Pavement Markings... 8B-16 CHAPTER 8D. Figure 8D-1 Figure 8D-2 FLASHING LIGHT SIGNALS, GATES, AND TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS Composite Drawing of Active Traffic Control Devices for Highway-Rail Grade Crossings Showing Clearances...8D-4 Example of Location Plan for Flashing-Light Signals and Four-Quadrant Gates...8D-6 TABLES CHAPTER 8B. SIGNS AND MARKINGS Table 8B-1 Sign Sizes for Grade Crossing Signs... 8B-3

3 2005 Edition Page 8A - 1 Section 8A.01 Introduction Support: CHAPTER 8A. GENERAL Traffic control for highway-rail grade crossings includes all signs, signals, markings, other warning devices, and includes their supports along highways approaching and at highway-rail grade crossings. The function of this traffic control is to permit reasonably safe and efficient operation of both rail and highway traffic at highway-rail grade crossings. For purposes of installation, operation, and maintenance of traffic control devices at highway-rail grade crossings, it is recognized that the crossing of the highway and rail tracks is situated on a right-of-way available for the joint use of both highway traffic and railroad traffic. The highway agency or authority with jurisdiction and the regulatory agency with statutory authority, if applicable, jointly determine the need and selection of devices at a highway-rail grade crossing. In Part 8, the combination of devices selected or installed at a specific highway-rail grade crossing is referred to as a traffic control system. The traffic control devices, systems, and practices described herein shall be used at all highwayrail grade crossings open to public travel, consistent with Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. To promote an understanding of common terminology between highway and railroad signaling issues, the following definitions shall be used: 1. Advance Preemption the notification of an approaching train that is forwarded to the highway traffic signal controller unit or assembly by the railroad equipment in advance of the activation of the railroad warning devices. 2. Advance Preemption Time the period of time that is the difference between the required maximum highway traffic signal preemption time and the activation of the railroad warning devices. 3. Cantilevered Signal Structure a structure that is rigidly attached to a vertical pole and is used to provide overhead support of signal units. 4. Clear Storage Distance the distance available for vehicle storage measured between 1.8 m (6 ft) from the rail nearest the intersection to the intersection stop line or the normal stopping point on the highway. At skewed highway-rail grade crossings and intersections, the 1.8 m (6 ft) distance shall be measured perpendicular to the nearest rail either along the centerline or edge line of the highway, as appropriate, to obtain the shorter distance. Where exit gates are used, the distance available for vehicle storage is measured from the point where the rear of the vehicle would be clear of the exit gate arm. In cases where the exit gate arm is parallel to the track(s) and is not perpendicular to the highway, the distance is measured either along the centerline or edge line of the highway, as appropriate, to obtain the shorter distance. 5. Design Vehicle the longest vehicle permitted by statute of the road authority (State or other) on that roadway. 6. Dynamic Envelope the clearance required for the train and its cargo overhang due to any combination of loading, lateral motion, or suspension failure (see Figure 8A-1). 7. Dynamic Exit Gate Operating Mode a mode of operation where the exit gate operation is based on the presence of vehicles within the minimum track clearance distance. 8. Exit Gate Clearance Time for Four-Quadrant Gate systems, the exit gate clearance time is the amount of time provided to delay the descent of the exit gate arm(s) after entrance gate arm(s) begin to descend. 9. Exit Gate Operating Mode for Four-Quadrant Gate systems, the mode of control used to govern the operation of the exit gate arms.

4 Page 8A Edition Figure 8A-1. Train Dynamic Envelope 10. Flashing-Light Signals a warning device consisting of two red signal indications arranged horizontally that are activated to flash alternately when a train is approaching or present at a highway-rail grade crossing. 11. Interconnection the electrical connection between the railroad active warning system and the highway traffic signal controller assembly for the purpose of preemption. 12. Maximum Highway Traffic Signal Preemption Time the maximum amount of time needed following initiation of the preemption sequence for the highway traffic signals to complete the timing of the right-of-way transfer time, queue clearance time, and separation time. 13. Minimum Track Clearance Distance for standard two-quadrant railroad warning devices, the minimum track clearance distance is the length along a highway at one or more railroad tracks, measured either from the highway stop line, warning device, or 3.7 m (12 ft) perpendicular to the track centerline, to 1.8 m (6 ft) beyond the track(s) measured perpendicular to the far rail, along the centerline or edge line of the highway, as appropriate, to obtain the longer distance. For Four-Quadrant Gate systems, the minimum track clearance distance is the length along a highway at one or more railroad tracks, measured either from the highway stop line or entrance warning device, to the point where the rear of the vehicle would be clear of the exit gate arm. In cases where the exit gate arm is parallel to the track(s) and is not perpendicular to the highway, the distance is measured either along the centerline or edge of the highway, as appropriate, to obtain the longer distance. 14. Minimum Warning Time Through Train Movements the least amount of time active warning devices shall operate prior to the arrival of a train at a highway-rail grade crossing. 15. Preemption the transfer of normal operation of highway traffic signals to a special control mode. 16. Pre-signal supplemental highway traffic signal faces operated as part of the highway intersection traffic signals, located in a position that controls traffic approaching the highwayrail grade crossing in advance of the intersection. 17. Queue Clearance Time the time required for the design vehicle of maximum length stopped just inside the minimum track clearance distance to start up and move through and clear the entire minimum track clearance distance. If pre-signals are present, this time shall be long enough to allow the vehicle to move through the intersection, or to clear the tracks if there is sufficient clear storage distance. If a Four-Quadrant Gate system is present, this time shall be long enough to permit the exit gate arm to lower after the design vehicle is clear of the minimum track clearance distance.

5 2005 Edition Page 8A Right-of-Way Transfer Time the maximum amount of time needed for the worst case condition, prior to display of the track clearance green interval. This includes any railroad or highway traffic signal control equipment time to react to a preemption call, and any traffic control signal green, pedestrian walk and clearance, yellow change, and red clearance intervals for conflicting traffic. 19. Separation Time the component of maximum highway traffic signal preemption time during which the minimum track clearance distance is clear of vehicular traffic prior to the arrival of the train. 20. Simultaneous Preemption notification of an approaching train is forwarded to the highway traffic signal controller unit or assembly and railroad active warning devices at the same time. 21. Timed Exit Gate Operating Mode a mode of operation where the exit gate descent is based on a predetermined time interval. 22. Vehicle Intrusion Detection Devices a detector or detectors used as a part of a system incorporating processing logic to detect the presence of vehicles within the minimum track clearance distance and to control the operation of the exit gates. 23. Wayside Equipment the signals, switches, and/or control devices for railroad operations housed within one or more enclosures located along the railroad right-of-way and/or on railroad property. Section 8A.02 Use of Standard Devices, Systems, and Practices Support: Because of the large number of significant variables to be considered, no single standard system of traffic control devices is universally applicable for all highway-rail grade crossings. The engineering study may include the Highway-Rail Intersection (HRI) components of the National Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) architecture, which is a USDOT accepted method for linking the highway, vehicles, and traffic management systems with rail operations and wayside equipment. Support: More detail on Highway-Rail Intersection components is available from USDOT s Federal Railroad Administration1120 Vermont Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20590,or Traffic control devices, systems, and practices shall be consistent with the design and application of the Standards contained herein. The highway agency or authority with jurisdiction, the regulatory agency with statutory authority and the railroad, as applicable, shall determine the need and selection of devices at a highway-rail grade crossing in accordance with Sections , , , , , , , and of the Ohio Revised Code. To stimulate effective responses from vehicle operators and pedestrians, these devices, systems, and practices should use the five basic considerations employed generally for traffic control devices and described fully in Section 1A.02: design, placement, operation, maintenance, and uniformity. Support: Many other details of highway-rail grade crossing traffic control systems that are not set forth in Part 8 are contained in the publications listed in Section 1A.11.

6 Page 8A Edition Section 8A.03 Uniform Provisions All signs used in highway-rail grade crossing traffic control systems shall be retroreflectorized or illuminated as described in Section 2A.08 to show the same shape and similar color to an approaching road user during both day and night. No sign or signal shall be located in the center of an undivided highway, except in a raised island. Such signs or signals should be installed with a clearance of at least 0.6 m (2 ft) from the outer edge of the raised island to the nearest edge of the sign or signal, except as allowed in Section 2A.19. Where the distance between tracks, measured along the highway between the inside rails, exceeds 30 m (100 ft), additional signs or other appropriate traffic control devices should be used. Section 8A.04 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Elimination Because highway-rail grade crossings are a potential source of crashes and congestion, agencies should conduct engineering studies to determine the cost and benefits of eliminating these crossings. When a highway-rail grade crossing is eliminated, the traffic control devices for the crossing shall be removed. The tracks shall also be removed and the space previously occupied by the rail bed filled with the same material that comprises the road or highway at the crossing. If the existing traffic control devices at a multiple-track highway-rail grade crossing become improperly placed or inaccurate because of the removal of some of the tracks, the existing devices shall be relocated and/or modified. Any highway-rail grade crossing that cannot be justified should be eliminated. Where a roadway is removed from a highway-rail grade crossing, the roadway approaches in the railroad right-of-way should also be removed and appropriate signs should be placed at the roadway end in accordance with Section 3C.04. Based on engineering judgment, the TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign (see Figure 8B-3) may be temporarily installed until the tracks are removed or paved over. The length of time before the tracks will be removed or paved over may be considered in making the decision as to whether to install the sign. Section 8A.05 Temporary Traffic Control Zones Support: Temporary traffic control planning provides for continuity of operations (such as movement of traffic, pedestrians and bicycles, transit operations, and access to property/utilities) when the normal function of a roadway at a highway-rail grade crossing is suspended because of temporary traffic control operations. Traffic controls for temporary traffic control zones that include highway-rail grade crossings shall be as outlined in Part 6. When a highway-rail grade crossing exists either within or in the vicinity of a temporary traffic control zone, lane restrictions, flagging, or other operations shall not be performed in a manner that

7 2005 Edition Page 8A - 5 would cause vehicles to stop on the railroad tracks, unless a law enforcement officer or flagger is provided at the highway-rail grade crossing to minimize the possibility of vehicles stopping on the tracks, even if automatic warning devices are in place. Public and private agencies, including emergency services, businesses, and railroad companies, should meet to plan appropriate traffic detours and the necessary signing, marking, and flagging requirements for operations during temporary traffic control zone activities. Consideration should be given to the length of time that the highway-rail grade crossing is to be closed, the type of rail and highway traffic affected, the time of day, and the materials and techniques of repair. Temporary traffic control operations should minimize the inconvenience, delay, and crash potential to affected traffic. Prior notice should be given to affected public or private agencies, emergency services, businesses, railroad companies, and road users before the free movement of vehicles or trains is infringed upon or blocked. Temporary traffic control zone activities should not be permitted to extensively prolong the closing of the highway-rail grade crossing. The width, grade, alignment, and riding quality of the highway surface at a highway-rail grade crossing should, at a minimum, be restored to correspond with the quality of the approaches to the highway-rail grade crossing.

8 Page 8A Edition Intentionally blank.

9 2005 Edition Page 8B - 1 Section 8B.01 Purpose Support: CHAPTER 8B. SIGNS AND MARKINGS Passive traffic control systems, consisting of signs and pavement markings, identify and direct attention to the location of a highway-rail grade crossing and advise motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to take appropriate action. Section 8B.02 Sizes of Grade Crossing Signs The sizes of grade crossing signs shall be as shown in Table 8B-1. Signs larger than those shown in Table 8B-1 may be used (see Section 2A.12). Section 8B.03 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Sign (R15-1) and Number of Tracks Sign (R15-2) As provided in Section of the Ohio Revised Code (see Appendix B2): At all points where its railroad crosses a public road at a common grade, each company shall erect crossbuck signing at positions at each such crossing that are in accordance with the department of transportation manual for uniform traffic control devices, adopted under section of the Revised Code, to give notice of the proximity of the railroad and warn persons to be on the lookout for the locomotive. Section of the Ohio Revised Code also provides that: The director of transportation may erect experimental signs at certain crossings in lieu of the above required signing, for the purpose of conducting research for the development of better signing systems. The Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (R15-1) sign, commonly identified as the Crossbuck sign, shall be retroreflectorized white with the words RAILROAD CROSSING in black lettering, mounted as shown in Figure 8B-1. As a minimum, one Crossbuck sign shall be used on each highway approach to every highway-rail grade crossing, alone or in combination with other traffic control devices. If automatic gates are not present and if there are two or more tracks at the highway-rail grade crossing, the number of tracks shall be indicated on a supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2) sign of inverted T shape mounted below the Crossbuck sign in the manner and at the height indicated in Figure 8B-1. The supplemental Number of Tracks sign may also be used at highway-rail grade crossings with automatic gates. The Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the right side of the highway on each approach to the highway-rail grade crossing. Where restricted sight distance or unfavorable highway geometry exists on an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing, an additional Crossbuck sign shall be installed on the left side of the highway, possibly placed back-to-back with the Crossbuck sign for the opposite approach, or otherwise located so that two Crossbuck signs are displayed for that approach.

10 Page 8B Edition A strip of retroreflective white material not less than 50 mm (2 in) in width shall be used on the back of each blade of each Crossbuck sign for the length of each blade, at all highway-rail grade crossings, except those where Crossbuck signs have been installed back-to-back. A strip of retroreflective white material, not less than 50 mm (2 in) in width, shall be used on each support at passive highway-rail grade crossings for the full length of the front and back of the support from the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks sign to within 0.6 m (2 ft) above the edge of the roadway, except on the side of those supports where a STOP (R1-1) or YIELD(R1-2) sign or flashing lights have been installed or on the back side of supports for Crossbuck signs installed on one-way streets. Crossbuck signs should be located with respect to the highway pavement or shoulder in accordance with the criteria in Chapter 2A and Figures 2A-1 and 2A-2, and should be located with respect to the nearest track in accordance with Figure 8D-2. The minimum lateral clearance for the nearest edge of the Crossbuck sign should be 1.8 m (6 ft) from the edge of the shoulder or 3.7 m (12 ft) from the edge of the traveled way in rural areas (whichever is greater), and 0.6 m (2 ft) from the face of the curb in urban areas. Where unusual conditions make variations in location and lateral clearance appropriate, engineering judgment should be used to provide the best practical combination of view and safety clearances. Section 8B.04 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning Signs (W10 Series) A Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see Figure 8B-2) shall be used on each highway in advance of every highway-rail grade crossing except in the following circumstances: A. On an approach to a highway-rail grade crossing from a T-intersection with a parallel highway, if the distance from the edge of the track to the edge of the parallel roadway is less than 30 m (100 ft), and W10-3 signs are used on both approaches of the parallel highway; or B. On low-volume, low-speed highways crossing minor spurs or other tracks that are infrequently used and are flagged by train crews; or C. In business districts where active highway-rail grade crossing traffic control devices are in use; or D. Where physical conditions do not permit even a partially effective display of the sign. Placement of the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign shall be in accordance with Chapter 2A and Table 2C-4. On divided highways and one-way streets, an additional W10-1 sign may be installed on the left side of the roadway. If a highway-rail grade crossing is rough, a ROUGH CROSSING (W10-15) plaque may be used with the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning sign. If the distance between the railroad tracks and a parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is less than 30 m (100 ft), W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs (see Figure 8B-2) shall be installed on each approach of the parallel highway to warn road users making a turn that they will encounter a highway-rail grade crossing soon after making a turn, and a W10-1 sign for the approach to the tracks shall not be required to be between the tracks and the parallel highway. If the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs are used, sign placement in accordance with the guidelines for Intersection Warning signs in Table 2C-4 using the speed of through traffic shall be measured from the highway intersection.

11 2005 Edition Page 8B - 3 Table 8B-1. Sign Sizes for Grade Crossing Signs (Sheet 1 of 2) Sign Sign Code Section Conventional Road Expressway Minimum Oversized NO RIGHT TURN ACROSS TRACKS NO LEFT TURN ACROSS TRACKS R3-1a R3-2a DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS R8-8 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE R8-9 STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING R8-10 STOP HERE ON RED R10-6 NO TURN ON RED Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) R10-11a R15-1 Number of Tracks R15-2 EXEMPT R15-3 LIGHT RAIL ONLY RIGHT LANE LIGHT RAIL ONLY LEFT LANE LIGHT RAIL ONLY CENTER LANE 8B.06, 10C.09 8B.06, 10C.09 8B.07, 10C.05 8B.09, 10C.06 8B.10, 10C.08 8B.11, 10C.07 8B.07, 10C.09 8B.03, 10C.02 8B.03, 10C.02 8B.05, 10C.10 R15-4a 10C.13 R15-4b 10C.13 R15-4c 10C.13 LIGHT RAIL DO NOT PASS R C.14 DO NOT PASS STOPPED TRAIN Do Not Drive On Tracks Light Rail Symbol R15-5a 10C.14 R C.12 DO NOT DRIVE ON TRACKS R15-6a 10C.12 Light rail Divided Highway Symbol Light Rail Divided Highway Symbol (T-Intersection) LOOK R15-8 Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning EXEMPT Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing R C.11 R15-7a 10C.11 W10-1 W10-1a W10-2, 3, 4 W10-5 8B.16, 10C.03 8B.04, 10C.15 8B C.10 8B.04, 10C.15 8B.17, 10C x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 600 (24 x 24) 600 x 900 (24 x 36) 600 x 900 (24 x 36) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 1200 x 225 (48 x 9) 675 x 450 (27 x 18) 600 x 300 (24 x 12) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 600 (24 x 24) 600 x 750 (24 x 30) 600 x 600 (24 x 24) 600 x 600 (24 x 24) 900 x 450 (36 x 18) 900 Dia. (36 Dia.) 600 x 300 (24 x 12) 900 x 900 (36 x 36) 900 x 900 (36 x 36)

12 Page 8B Edition Table 8B-1. Sign Sizes for Grade Crossing Signs (Sheet 2 of 2) Sign Sign Code Section Conventional Road Expressway Minimum Oversized Light Rail Activated Blank- Out Symbol TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH W C.17 W10-8 8B.13 NO TRAIN HORN W10-9 8B.14 NO SIGNAL W B.15 Storage Space Symbol W10-11 STORAGE SPACE XX FEET BETWEEN TRACKS & HIGHWAY STORAGE SPACE XX FREE BETWEEN HIGHWAY & TRACKS BEHIND YOU Skewed Crossing NO GATES OR LIGHTS NEXT CROSSING USE NEXT CROSSING ROUGH CROSSING Light Rail Station Symbol Emergency Notification Emergency Notification W10-11a W10-11b W B.18, 10C.18 8B.18, 10C.18 8B.18, 10C.18 8B.19, 10C.19 W B.15 W B.17 W10-14a 8B.17 W B.17 I-12 10C.20 I-13 I-13a 8B.12, 10C.21 8B.12, 10C x 750 (30 x 30) 900 x 900 (36 x 36) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 900 x 900 (36 x 36) 750 x 900 (30 x 36) 750 x 900 (30 x 36) 900 x 900 (36 x 36) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 600 x 600 (24 x 24) 750 x 750 (30 x 30) 750 x 450 (30 x 18) Notes: 1. Larger signs may be used when appropriate. 2. Dimensions are shown in millimeters followed by inches in parentheses and are shown as width x height.

13 i i s 2005 Edition Page 8B - 5 Figure 8B-1. Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (Crossbuck) Regulatory Signs d,% 57^7`) $=A - 9< 4(5 >(>% 7p7E) 4-9< z z { w } ~& e fhg g jk lgm n o q q r&s t uwvx y >>(% 7^7`) 4-9(< #$&%('"$ ) *,+-.. /(*10 23+,4(5 ' */(6,+ //712389;: - 96,< #$=%'> >@? A 71BC) 40 : < 675 mm (27 in) % 57^7`) > - 9<(abW- : / + /: /0. /(_&: - [;/^\=: +- c BVUK/,- 6,W;:371XYZ;/[;X3+ - /* X(\1+ /]38- + /(*ZY^. 2(_=X3. _2,9*,- : - 239;\ 5? D 7E) > 0 : <GFH I #KJ H L MNH@OQPR@STRP Figure 8B-2. Advance Warning Signs "!

14 Page 8B Edition If the distance between the railroad tracks and the parallel highway, from the edge of the tracks to the edge of the parallel roadway, is 30 m (100 ft) or more, a W10-1 sign should be installed in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing, and the W10-2, W10-3, or W10-4 signs should not be used on the parallel highway. Section 8B.05 EXEMPT Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Signs (R15-3, W10-1a) When authorized by the Public Utilities Commission, a supplemental EXEMPT (R15-3) sign (see Figure 8B-3) with a white background bearing the word EXEMPT may be used below the Crossbuck sign or Number of Tracks sign, if present, at the highway-rail grade crossing, and a supplemental EXEMPT (W10-1a) sign (see Figure 8B-5) with a yellow background bearing the word EXEMPT may be used below the Highway-Rail Advance Warning (W10-1) sign. Support: Section of the Ohio Revised Code (O.R.C.) requires certain vehicles to stop, look and listen at highway-rail grade crossings (see Appendix B2). Supplemental EXEMPT signs (R15-3, W10-1a) inform drivers of these vehicles that a stop is not required at certain designated highway-rail grade crossings, except when a train, locomotive, or other railroad equipment is approaching or occupying the highway-rail grade crossing. Section 8B.06 Turn Restrictions During Preemption At a signalized intersection that is located within 60 m (200 ft) of a highway-rail grade crossing, measured from the edge of the track to the edge of the roadway, where the intersection traffic control signals are preempted by the approach of a train, all existing turning movements toward the highway-rail grade crossing should be prohibited during the signal preemption sequences. A blank-out or changeable message sign and/or appropriate highway traffic signal indication or other similar type sign may be used to prohibit turning movements toward the highway-rail grade crossing during preemption. The R3-1a and R3-2a signs shown in Figure 8B-3 may be used for this purpose. Turn prohibition signs that are associated with preemption shall be visible only when the highway-rail grade crossing restriction is in effect. Section 8B.07 DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS Sign (R8-8) Whenever engineering judgment determines that the potential for vehicles stopping on the tracks is high, a DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS (R8-8) sign (see Figure 8B-3) should be used. The sign, if used, should be located on the right side of the highway on either the near or far side of the highway-rail grade crossing, depending upon which side provides better visibility to approaching drivers. DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS signs may be placed on both sides of the track. On divided highways and one-way streets, a second DO NOT STOP ON TRACKS sign may be placed on the near or far left side of the highway-rail grade crossing to further improve visibility of the sign.

15 2005 Edition Page 8B - 7 Section 8B.08 STOP (R1-1) or YIELD (R1-2) Signs at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings As noted in Section of the Ohio Revised Code (see Appendix B2): The department of transportation and local authorities in their respective jurisdictions, with the approval of the department, may designate dangerous highway crossings over railroad tracks whether on state, county, or township highways or on streets or ways within municipal corporations, and erect stop signs thereat. In accordance with Section of the Ohio Revised Code, STOP signs shall be installed at highway-rail grade crossings only with the approval of the Ohio Department of Transportation. For other highway-rail grade crossings with passive warning devices, YIELD signs may be used based on an engineering study. Figure 8B-3. Regulatory Signs ƒcš " & Ž = ; ( N 3 & š1 ; ƒcš œ( ŽC = ( 3 ( & šž ; ƒkœ( Œ ƒkœ( ƒ Œ( " ƒ ˆ ƒ " = = ƒ Š ƒ Œ

16 Page 8B Edition The engineering study should take into consideration such factors as highway and train traffic characteristics (including volume and speed), collision history, the need for active control devices, and sight distance to the approaching train. If a STOP or YIELD sign is installed at a highway-rail grade crossing, it may be installed on the Crossbuck post or on a separate post at a point where the vehicle is to stop, or as near to that point as practical. For all highway-rail grade crossings where STOP or YIELD signs are installed, the placement shall conform to the requirements of Sections 2B.06 and 2B.10. Stop Ahead (W3-1) or Yield Ahead (W3-2) Advance Warning signs (see Figure 2C-4) shall also be installed if the criteria for their installation given in Section 2C.29 is met. Section 8B.09 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign (R8-9) The TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign (see Figure 8B-3) may be used at a highway-rail grade crossing instead of a Crossbuck (R15-1) sign and a Number of Tracks (R15-2) sign (see Figure 8B-1) when the abandonment of the railroad tracks has been approved by the regulatory authority with statutory authority, but only until such time that the tracks are removed and the space previously occupied by the rails filled with the same material that comprises the road or highway at the crossing. When tracks are abandoned, traffic control devices, signal heads and gate arms shall be removed. The R8-9 sign shall be removed when the tracks have been removed and the space previously occupied by the rail bed filled with the same material that comprises the road or highway at the crossing or when the highway-rail grade crossing is returned to service. Section 8B.10 STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING Sign (R8-10) The STOP HERE WHEN FLASHING (R8-10) sign (see Figure 8B-3) may be used at a highway-rail grade crossing to inform drivers of the location of the stop line or the point at which to stop when the flashing-light signals (see Section 8D.02) are activated. Section 8B.11 STOP HERE ON RED Sign (R10-6) Support: The STOP HERE ON RED (R10-6) sign (see Figure 8B-3) defines and facilitates observance of stop lines at traffic control signals. A STOP HERE ON RED sign may be used at locations where vehicles frequently violate the stop line or where it is not obvious to road users where to stop. If possible, stop lines should be placed at a point where the vehicle driver has adequate sight distance along the track.

17 2005 Edition Page 8B - 9 Section 8B.12 Emergency Notification Sign (I-13 or I-13a) An Emergency Notification (I-13 or I-13a) sign (see Figure 8B-4) should be installed at all highway-rail grade crossings to provide for emergency notification. The sign should have a white message on blue background. Location and placement should be decided cooperatively by the railroad company and the public or private highway agencies based on specific site conditions. However, these signs are typically located on the railroad right-of-way. This sign, which is for emergency notification, should convey a clear and simple message that is visible to anyone stalled or disabled on the railroad tracks, and to anyone with other emergencies. Support: Examples of sign messages are shown in Figure 8B-4. Section 8B.13 TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH Sign (W10-8) Where trains are permitted to travel at speeds exceeding 130 km/h (80 mph), a TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH (W10-8) sign (see Figure 8B-5) should be installed facing road users approaching the highway-rail grade crossing. If used, the TRAINS MAY EXCEED 80 MPH signs should be installed between the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see Figure 8B-2) and the highway-rail grade crossing on all approaches to the highway-rail grade crossing. The locations should be determined based on specific site conditions. Figure 8B-4. Examples of Emergency Notification Signs Ÿ " Ÿ "

18 Page 8B Edition Section 8B.14 NO TRAIN HORN Sign (W10-9) A NO TRAIN HORN (W10-9) sign (see Figure 8B-5) shall be installed at each highway-rail grade crossing where there is a Federal Railroad Administration authorization for trains to not sound a horn. The sign shall be mounted as a supplemental plaque below the Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Advance Warning (W10-1) sign (see Figure 8B-2). Section 8B.15 NO SIGNAL Sign (W10-10) or NO GATES OR LIGHTS Sign (W10-13) A NO SIGNAL (W10-10) sign or a NO GATES OR LIGHTS (W10-13) sign (see Figure 8B-5) may be installed at highway-rail grade crossings that are not equipped with automated signals. The NO SIGNAL (W10-10) sign or the NO GATES OR LIGHTS (W10-13) sign may be mounted as a supplemental plaque below the Advance Warning (W10-1) sign. Section 8B.16 LOOK Sign (R15-8) At highway-rail grade crossings, the LOOK (R15-8) sign (see Figure 8B-3) may be mounted as a supplemental plaque on the Crossbuck (R15-1) sign post, or as a separate sign in the immediate vicinity of the highway-rail grade crossing on the railroad right-of-way. Section 8B.17 Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Sign (W10-5) If the highway profile conditions are sufficiently abrupt to create a hang-up situation for long wheelbase vehicles or for trailers with low ground clearance, the Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (W10-5) sign (see Figure 8B-5) should be installed in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing. Because this symbol might not be readily recognizable by the public, the Low Ground Clearance Highway-Rail Grade Crossing (W10-5) warning sign shall be accompanied by an educational plaque, LOW GROUND CLEARANCE. The LOW GROUND CLEARANCE educational plaque shall remain in place for at least 3 years after the initial installation of the W10-5 sign (see Section 2A.13). Auxiliary plaques such as AHEAD, NEXT CROSSING, or USE NEXT CROSSING (with appropriate arrows), or a supplemental distance plaque should be placed below the W10-5 sign at the nearest intersecting highway where a vehicle can detour or at a point on the highway wide enough to permit a U- turn. If engineering judgment of roadway geometric and operating conditions confirms that vehicle speeds across the railroad tracks should be below the posted speed limit, a W13-1 advisory speed plaque should be posted. If the highway-rail grade crossing is rough, word message signs such as BUMP, DIP, or ROUGH CROSSING may be installed. A W13-1 advisory speed plaque may be installed below the word message sign in advance of rough crossings.

19 2005 Edition Page 8B - 11 Figure 8B-5. Warning Signs ; " ; ; ( " " ; " = ; " = ( " = ; " ;ª ( " w«( " w«@ ; " ; ±C²³ µ& ( " = b¹º»3¼º ¹1 ( ª^¹º»3¼½²,¾3º º (¾^ ²3À@»( 3½^ ³Àº Á¹(Âà ³ 3À@¹º»@¼¹1Á 3¼ ²3Àº 3¼;³ (¾²3À À Ä(º ¹; (¾ (¹^¼, (¾(,¾^³ ²p¹ (³ º ¹= Åž³ ṕ», (²@½ (³ Àº Á¹1² 3³ ŃÀ ², (¾Æb Å;¹1 3¼¾^³ ŃÀ 3º Ç À ²(,¾^³ À (ÁÈ=¹(Â

20 Page 8B Edition Support: Information on railroad ground clearance requirements is also available in the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association s Engineering Manual, or the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (see Section 1A.11). Section 8B.18 Storage Space Signs (W10-11, W10-11a, W10-11b) A Storage Space (W10-11) sign supplemented by a word message storage distance (W10-11a) sign (see Figure 8B-5) should be used where there is a highway intersection in close proximity to the highway-rail grade crossing and an engineering study determines that adequate space is not available to store a design vehicle(s) between the highway intersection and the train dynamic envelope. The Storage Space (W10-11 and W10-11a) signs should be mounted in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing at an appropriate location to advise drivers of the space available for vehicle storage between the highway intersection and the highway-rail grade crossing. A Storage Space (W10-11b) sign (see Figure 8B-5) may be mounted beyond the highway-rail grade crossing at the highway intersection under the STOP or YIELD sign or just prior to the signalized intersection to remind drivers of the storage space between the tracks and the highway intersection. Section 8B.19 Skewed Crossing Sign (W10-12) The Skewed Crossing (W10-12) sign (see Figure 8B-5) may be used at a skewed highway-rail grade crossing to warn drivers that the railroad tracks are not perpendicular to the highway. If the Skewed Crossing sign is used, the symbol should show the direction of the crossing (near left to far right as shown in Figure 8B-5, or the mirror image if the track goes from far left to near right). If the Skewed Crossing sign is used where the angle of the crossing is significantly different than 45 degrees, the symbol should show the approximate angle of the crossing. The Skewed Crossing sign shall not be used as a replacement for the required Advance Warning (W10-1) sign. If used, the Skewed Crossing sign shall supplement the W10-1 sign and shall be mounted on a separate post. Section 8B.20 Pavement Markings All highway-rail grade crossing pavement markings shall be retroreflectorized white. All other markings shall be in accordance with Part 3. Pavement markings in advance of a highway-rail grade crossing shall consist of an X, the letters RR, a no-passing marking (two-lane highways where centerline markings are used), and certain transverse lines as shown in Figures 8B-6 and 8B-7. Identical markings shall be placed in each approach lane on all paved approaches to highway-rail grade crossings where signals or automatic gates are located, and at all other highway-rail grade crossings where the posted or statutory highway speed is 60 km/h (40 mph) or greater.

21 2005 Edition Page 8B - 13 Pavement markings shall not be required at highway-rail grade crossings where the posted or statutory highway speed is less than 60 km/h (40 mph), or in urban areas, if an engineering study indicates that other installed devices provide suitable warning and control. When pavement markings are used, a portion of the X symbol should be directly opposite the Advance Warning sign. The X symbol and letters should be elongated to allow for the low angle at which they will be viewed. When justified by engineering judgment, supplemental pavement marking symbol(s) may be placed between the Advance Warning sign and the highway-rail grade crossing. Section 8B.21 Stop Lines The stop line should be a transverse line at a right angle to the traveled way at a point where a vehicle is to stop or as near to that point as possible. The stop line should be placed approximately 2.4 m (8 ft) from the gate (if present), but no closer than 4.6 m (15 ft) nor more than 15m (50 ft) from the nearest rail. Section 8B.22 Dynamic Envelope Markings Dynamic envelope markings may be used to mark the edges of the dynamic envelope where there is a highway intersection in close proximity to the highway-rail grade crossing and an engineering study determines that vehicles might stop within the dynamic envelope area. Dynamic envelope markings may be installed at all highway-rail grade crossings, unless a Four- Quadrant Gate system (see Section 8D.05) is used. If used, pavement markings for indicating the dynamic envelope shall conform to Part 3 and shall be a 100 mm (4 in) normal solid white line or contrasting pavement color and/or contrasting pavement texture. If used, dynamic envelope pavement markings should be placed on the highway 1.8 m (6 ft) from the nearest rail, installed parallel to the tracks, unless the operating railroad company advises otherwise. The pavement markings should extend across the roadway as shown in Figure 8B-8.

22 ù Page 8B Edition Figure 8B-6. Example of Placement of Warning Signs and Pavement Markings at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings Õ Ï Ø3ê^Ù Ó ÎÌ^Ê3ê(ê(Ñ Øè(Ó Í1ÊÏ Ì,Ù Ö ÿ@î Í`Û Þ1ò Ï â(òñ Ø3Í Ô(ÊÏ Ì Û Ó ògê(ñ ÌåÌ3ÎÏ â ûî ÞÍ`Û ò Ï â GÑ Ê3Ó Î ÖÎÊ3Í^Ó é Î=ËÌ3Ù Ø3êÌ ûî ÞÍ Û ò Ï â ÖÎ;Ê3Í^Ó é ÎË;Ì3Ù Ø3ê;Ì É ÊË;Ì3Í1Ì3Î;Ï Ð1Ê3Ñ ÒÓ ÎÔ Û Ø3ê;Ï Ó Ø3ÎÊ,Ù â Ï ç(ñ Ì(ÌàýÙ Ê3Î;Ì Ñ ØÊ(äóÊÖ1å;çØ3ÝÙ ä ;Ì Í1Ê3ÑÒ&ÌäóbÓ Ï çê éì,î;ï Ì3Ñ Ù Ó ÎÌ1ò Ø3Ñ,Ï ó Ø(à Ù Ê3ÎÌ^Ê3ê(êÑ Ø(Ê(é;çØ3ê;Ì3Ñ ÊÏ Ó Ø3Î1Ø3Î Ï çì^ê3ê(êñ Ø(Êéç1Ï ØpÊpé;Ñ Ø(å=åÓ ÎÔ@î ãžîpí^ý(ù Ï Ó à Ù Ê3ÎÌÑ Ø(Êä(åæ=Ï çì^ï Ñ Ê3ÎåwËÌ3Ñ åì ;Ê3Îä(å å;çø3ý(ù äpìèï Ì3Îä^Ê(éÑ Ø(ååbÊ3Ù Ù&Ê,ê(ê(Ñ Ø(Ê(éç^Ù Ê3Î;Ì(åæ;Ê,Îä Ó Î;ä3Ó Ë(Ó ä3ýê3ùëìtëíå=öíp ;Ø3Ù åbåçø3ýù ä ;Ì Ýå=Ì(ä Ó Î ÌÊ(éç1Ê3ê(ê(Ñ Ø(Ê(é;çpÙ Ê3Î;ÌGî ügî Í Û ÿò Ï â Ê3ê(ê(Ñ Øè3î î Ï Ø û&þ Í Û û=þï Øpþüò Ï â ügî Í Û ÿò Ï â Õ Ì(Ì ç;ê3ê;ï Ì,Ñ3ÿ æ ;Ê, (Ù Ì^ÿ à á3î þ Í Û ÿ(þò Ï â û=þí Û þ(ü1ò Ï â Úbøôç;Ì3ÎpÝ;åÌ(ä3æ;Ê ê;ø3ñ Ï Ó Ø,ÎØò(Ï çì êêëì,íì,î;ï@í1ê3ñò=ó ÎÔpå&ÖÍ^ Ø3Ù åçø3ýù ä ;Ìpä3Ó Ñ Ì(é=Ï Ù Ö1Ø3êêØ(å;Ó Ï Ì^Ï ç;ì ù äë;ê3îéì1øúê3ñ Î(Ó ÎÔpÕKÓ Ô,ÎpÛ øû=üà"û;âýî ñ ògîìì(ä(ì(ä3æ;åýê(ê(ù Ì,ÍÌ3ÎÏ Ê3Ù êêëì,íì,î;ï@í1ê3ñò=ó ÎÔpå&ÖÍ^ Ø3Ù Û åâ ÍÊÖ Ìê(Ù Ê(é=Ì(ä ;ÌÏ óì(ì3îžï çì ù äë;ê3îéì1øúê3ñ Î(Ó ÎÔpÕKÓ Ô,ÎÊ3Î;ä^Ï ç;ì éñ Ø(å=åÓ ÎÔ3æ (ÝÏ,åç;Ø3Ý(Ù ä ÌpÊÏ@Ù Ì(Êå=Ï û=þ Í`Û þüò Ï âòñ Ø3Í Ï çì^å=ï Ø,êpÙ Ó Î;ÌGî á3î þ Í Û ÿ(þò Ï â ÉGÊË;Ì3ÍÌ,Î;Ï ÐžÊ3Ñ ÒÓ ÎÔ Õ ÖÍ^ Ø3ÙwÚ Û ÕÌ(Ì Ü@Ó Ô,Ý(Ñ Ì^Þ@ß àá,â Û Ø3ê;Ï Ó Ø,ÎÊ3Ù â ügî Í Û ÿ1ò Ï â ïkøï ÌGðñ ÎÊ3Î1Ìò ò Ø3Ñ ÏÏ ØpåÓ Ípê(Ù Ó ò ÖžÏ ç;ì òó Ô3Ý(Ñ Ì^Ï Ø^åçØ;óôóÊ3ÑÎ(Ó ÎÔpå;Ó Ô3Î Ê3ÎäêÊË;Ì3ÍÌ,Î;Ï@Í1Ê3ÑÒ=Ó ÎÔ ê(ù Ê(é=Ì3ÍÌ,Î;ÏæÎØÏ,Ê,Ù ÙÑ Ìõ3Ý(Ó Ñ Ì(ä^Ï Ñ Êò òó é éø3îï Ñ Ø3Ù&äÌË(Ó é=ì(åbê3ñ Ì^åçØóbÎ3î ö;ì(ô(ì,îä Ó Ñ Ì(é=Ï Ó Ø3ÎØ;ò,Ï Ñ Ê;ËÌ3Ù

23 i f l b N jk g p N k mn o g j l jr 2005 Edition Page 8B - 15 Figure 8B-7. Examples of Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Pavement Markings 3" ;: 7< 5 7DCEFHG : 4<IBJ K6LM7NO7PQ5 RS TDN U0V GO: 5 W b S RN v U CO: 5 W X%Y Y[Z Z \ ]/^ _ `/a mn o l h i fg GS V N U b c : 5 W V C[N U d Te: 5 W i X%Y Y[Z Z \ ]/^O_ `/a mn o f i klg o t u jrs f i V N U q S q : 5 W U GS G : 5 W U b q : 5 W!!" # $%#$& '(#% )*'+,#-$+,/. #! vxw 7PQ5 7< 4;:J KP;7 "0 -!-! # 1*-'+,#-$2+,%. #!? y;5 zdnok6{} QK< { KBLMLM4 < y? P;@~5 4J K P;7O e? y65 z

24 Page 8B Edition Figure 8B-8. Typical Train Dynamic Envelope Pavement Markings ˆ6Š ž ƒ O ; ˆ ŠBŠ ˆD ;Œ DŽ6 Œ eš ; O HŒ B ~Š ˆ Q ;ˆ; 1Š ; D 6 ; ; DŒ e M ; ˆŽ; H MŒ ; B ; 6 ;ˆ6Š xž; ; ; O QŠ O H MŒ ; B eˆ ˆ6Š Q Bš BŒ B Š ; HŒ e Mˆ QŠ ˆ B ; 6Œ M B e D Q ;ˆ; e œ Ÿ - }ƒ «[ƒ ± ² ³ ²ª;Óµ² "ˆB 6 ; 6 ªM B B ; «Œ 6 xš Œ ˆ Oˆ; Š ; ; Ÿ Q D Œ xš ; x ; 6Š B ~ Œ ; D 6 ; ; DŒ x ; ˆŽ; Ž; ; Q O QŠ H MŒ ; D Q ;ˆ B ; Bš ; Š ˆ 6œ Ö Š B 6 B M eˆ6š ; eœ M B Q BŒ M B Q }Š ; DˆŽ; 6Š Œ ; Œ ˆB 6 œ 1 2ƒ Ÿ² µm ³2² D² Ÿ 2 ƒ ¹eº M»B»D D ¼ ½>Œ B B eœ B

25 2005 Edition Page 8C - 1 CHAPTER 8C. ILLUMINATION Section 8C.01 Illumination at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings Illumination may be installed at or adjacent to a highway-rail grade crossing. If an engineering study is conducted and if the engineering study determines that better nighttime visibility of the train and the highway-rail grade crossing is needed (for example, where a substantial amount of railroad operation is conducted at night, where train speeds are low and highway-rail grade crossings are blocked for long periods, or crash history indicates that drivers experience difficulty in seeing trains or traffic control devices during hours of darkness), then illumination should be installed at and adjacent to the highway-rail grade crossing. Support: Types and location of luminaires for highway-rail grade crossing illumination are contained in the American National Standards Institute s (ANSI) Practice for Roadway Lighting RP-8 available from the Illuminating Engineering Society (see Section 1A.11).

26 Page 8C Edition Intentionally blank.

27 2005 Edition Page 8D-1 Section 8D.01 Introduction Support: CHAPTER 8D. FLASHING-LIGHT SIGNALS, GATES, AND TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS Active traffic control systems inform motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians of the approach or presence of trains, locomotives, or other railroad equipment at highway-rail grade crossings. A composite drawing (see Figure 8D-1) shows a post-mounted flashing-light signal (two light units mounted in a horizontal line), a flashing-light signal mounted on an overhead structure, and an automatic gate assembly. Post-mounted and overhead-mounted flashing-light signals may be used separately or in combination with each other as determined by an engineering study. Also, flashing-light signals may be used without automatic gate assemblies, as determined by an engineering study. The meaning of flashing-light signals and gates shall be as defined in Section and of the Ohio Revised Code. Requirements for the erection and operation of the signal equipment, gates, bells and related traffic control devices at railroad grade crossings are contained in Sections, , , , , and of the Ohio Revised Code (see Appendix B2). Location and clearance dimensions for flashing-light signals and gates shall be as shown in Figure 8D-1. When there is a curb, a horizontal clearance of at least 0.6 m (2 ft) shall be provided from the face of the vertical curb to the closest part of the signal or gate arm in its upright position. When a cantilevered-arm flashing-light signal is used, the vertical clearance shall be at least 5.2 m (17 ft) above the crown of the highway to the lowest point of the signal unit. Where there is a shoulder, but no curb, a horizontal clearance of at least 0.6 m (2 ft) from the edge of a paved or surfaced shoulder shall be provided, with a clearance of at least 1.8 m (6 ft) from the edge of the traveled way. Where there is no curb or shoulder, the minimum horizontal clearance shall be 1.8 m (6 ft) from the edge of the traveled way. Equipment housings (controller cabinets) should have a lateral clearance of at least 9 m (30 ft) from the edge of the highway, and where railroad property and conditions allow, at least 7.6 m (25 ft) from the nearest rail. If a pedestrian route is provided, sufficient clearance from supports, posts, and gate mechanisms should be maintained for pedestrian travel. For a shared-use facility, if automatic gates are provided, a pedestrian gate long enough to block the full width of the path, for both pedestrians and bicyclists, should also be used. When determined by an engineering study, a lateral escape route to the right of the highway in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing traffic control devices should be kept free of guardrail or other ground obstructions. Where guardrail is not deemed necessary or appropriate, barriers should not be used for protecting signal supports. The same lateral clearance and roadside safety features should apply to flashing-light signal and automatic gate locations on both the right and left sides of the roadway.

28 Page 8D Edition In industrial or other areas involving only low-speed highway traffic or where signals are vulnerable to damage by turning truck traffic, guardrail may be installed to provide protection for the signal assembly. Section 8D.02 Flashing-Light Signals, Post-Mounted The flashing-light signal assembly (shown in Figure 8D-1) on the side of the highway shall include a standard Crossbuck (R15-1) sign, and where there is more than one track, a supplemental Number of Tracks (R15-2) sign, all of which indicate to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians the location of a highway-rail grade crossing. Bells or other audible warning devices may be included in the assembly and may be operated in conjunction with the flashing lights to provide additional warning for pedestrians and bicyclists. When indicating the approach or presence of a train, the flashing-light signal shall display toward approaching highway traffic two red lights mounted in a horizontal line flashing alternately. Flashing-light signals shall be placed to the right of approaching highway traffic on all highway approaches to a highway-rail grade crossing. They shall be located laterally with respect to the highway in conformance with Figure 8D-1 except where such location would adversely affect signal visibility. At highway-rail grade crossings with highway traffic in both directions, back-to-back pairs of lights shall be placed on each side of the tracks. On multi-lane one-way streets and divided highways, flashing light signals shall be placed on the approach side of the highway-rail grade crossing on both sides of the roadway or shall be placed above the highway. Each red signal unit in the flashing-light signal shall flash alternately. The number of flashes per minute for each lamp shall be 35 minimum and 65 maximum. Each lamp shall be illuminated approximately the same length of time. Total time of illumination of each pair of lamps shall be the entire operating time. Flashing-light units shall use either 200 mm (8 in) or 300 mm (12 in) nominal diameter lenses. In choosing between the 200 mm (8 in) or 300 mm (12 in) nominal diameter lenses for use in highwayrail grade crossing flashing-light signals, consideration should be given to the principles stated in Section 4D.15. Highway-rail grade crossing flashing-light signals shall operate at a low voltage using storage batteries either as a primary or stand-by source of electrical energy. Provision shall be made to provide a source of energy for charging batteries. Additional pairs of flashing-light units may be mounted on the same supporting post and directed toward vehicular traffic approaching the highway-rail grade crossing from other than the principal highway route, such as where there are approaching routes on highways closely adjacent to and parallel to the railroad.